When your release is moved to Needs Documentation status (sometimes displayed as Needs Docs), it is because we need additional information confirming that you have the necessary rights to distribute and monetize the release.
Below are some common reasons a release may be flagged for documentation review, along with examples of acceptable supporting materials.
Audio Matches
All new releases are scanned and matched against an extensive database of global music rights. If your audio closely matches another existing recording, your release may be moved to Needs Documentation.
Common reasons include:
- Use of samples or loops from existing recordings
- Use of non-exclusive beats purchased from third-party producers
Acceptable documentation may include:
- A signed agreement by you and the copyright owner stating you have the rights to use their copyright
- A lease agreement you received from purchasing a sound recording (production loop, beat, sample, sound, etc) via a third party
- Any valid evidence that could demonstrate that the matched recording has been obtained lawfully, and valid evidence that could prove that the commercialization of the obtained sample/sound recording is authorized
Cover Art Matches
Some releases may be moved to Needs Documentation if they contain copyrighted material in the artwork.
Common reasons include:
- Images or stills from movies or TV shows
- Photos of celebrities or public figures
- Brand logos or trademarked designs
Acceptable documentation may include:
- A signed agreement by you and the copyright owner stating you have the rights to use their copyright
- A written clarification of the cover artwork's origins (if public domain or not protected by copyright)
Popular Artist Name Usage
Popular artist names are often trademarked or protected by rights holders. To prevent misuse and ensure compliance, releases that include well-known artist names are automatically flagged for review.
Acceptable documentation may include:
- A recording agreement or side artist agreement signed by you and the artist (or their authorized representation) that grants you the necessary rights to utilize their name in connection to your release
- Written consent from the popular artist directly to Too Lost (via a communication channel approved by Too Lost)
- A label or rights holder waiver signed by you and the label/rights holder granting you the necessary rights
- Any other valid evidence that could demonstrate that use of the artist’s name has been obtained lawfully.
Cover Songs
If your release contains a cover song, we may need additional documentation to confirm that you’ve secured the required cover license. You can obtain this license through your Too Lost account here.
How To Resolve the “Needs Documentation” Status
- Navigate to the Support portal of your Too Lost account and click Create Ticket.
- Scroll down and select Needs Documentation.
- Choose the applicable release and click Select Release.
- Upload your documentation and any supporting information.
- Click Submit Ticket to complete your submission.